39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.28 percent of the residents in 39567 has some form of health insurance. 40.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.66 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 39567 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,774 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39567. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,679 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi.

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Pascagoula, Mississippi (ZIP code 39567) necessitates a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the availability of primary care physicians, but also the specific resources and practices in place to manage asthma, a chronic respiratory condition that disproportionately affects certain populations. This analysis will delve into the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight notable practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of providing optimal asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Pascagoula, understanding the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population is crucial. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, decreased access to preventative care, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment of asthma. This is particularly concerning for a condition like asthma, where timely intervention is critical for preventing exacerbations and hospitalizations. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio for this specific ZIP code should be sourced from reliable databases, such as the American Medical Association (AMA) or state-level medical boards. This baseline understanding is essential for evaluating the overall accessibility of primary care, the gateway for asthma management.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and scope of services offered by individual practices are paramount. Identifying standout practices within Pascagoula requires examining their asthma management protocols. Do they adhere to the latest guidelines from organizations like the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Do they offer comprehensive asthma education to patients and their families, empowering them to manage their condition effectively? Do they have dedicated asthma specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, either on staff or readily available for referrals? Practices that excel in asthma care often employ a multidisciplinary approach, involving nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals. These practices should also have robust systems for monitoring patient outcomes, using metrics such as asthma control tests and rates of exacerbations.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has emerged as a valuable tool, especially in rural areas like Pascagoula. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine among primary care practices is crucial. Do physicians offer virtual consultations for asthma management? Can patients use remote monitoring devices to track their lung function and share data with their doctors? Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients who live far from medical facilities or have difficulty traveling. It can also facilitate more frequent monitoring and follow-up appointments, leading to better asthma control. Practices that embrace telemedicine are better positioned to provide convenient and proactive care.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Patients with asthma are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. These conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact overall quality of life. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is vital. Do practices in Pascagoula screen patients for mental health concerns? Do they offer on-site counseling or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Practices that prioritize mental well-being are better equipped to provide holistic care for patients with asthma.

Primary care availability in Pascagoula is intertwined with the overall health of the community. The availability of primary care physicians is directly linked to the health of the community. A community with a higher number of physicians is more likely to have a healthier population. If the physician-to-patient ratio is high, it is likely that the community is struggling with access to healthcare. If there is a shortage of physicians, it is likely that the community will struggle with access to healthcare.

The analysis must consider the demographics of the population in Pascagoula, including age, race, and socioeconomic status. Asthma prevalence and severity can vary significantly across different demographic groups. Understanding these disparities is crucial for tailoring care to the specific needs of the community. For example, areas with a higher proportion of children or individuals with lower incomes may require additional resources and support.

To accurately assess the asthma care landscape, it's essential to gather data from various sources. This includes information from local hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Patient surveys and interviews can provide valuable insights into their experiences with asthma care. Analyzing insurance coverage and reimbursement rates can also reveal potential barriers to accessing care.

In conclusion, evaluating the asthma care landscape in Pascagoula (39567) requires a comprehensive assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis should also consider the unique demographic characteristics of the community. By understanding these factors, we can identify areas for improvement and work towards ensuring that all residents of Pascagoula have access to high-quality asthma care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pascagoula and other areas, consider utilizing the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. This tool can help you visualize physician density, access to care, and other relevant data points, providing a powerful way to analyze healthcare disparities and identify areas that need attention.